Resource use efficiency is an essential component of decarbonization, focusing on deriving maximum value from products before disposal through proper maintenance, repair, or refurbishment. This approach can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with the production of new goods and minimize waste. In the Indian context, improving product use efficiency offers substantial potential for decarbonization across various sectors.
Current Scenario
The throwaway culture, coupled with the rise of fast fashion, consumer electronics, and other disposable goods, contributes to a substantial carbon footprint. In 2023, India generated approximately 65 million tonnes of municipal solid waste (MSW) annually. Of this, about 47 million tonnes are collected, and 15 million tonnes are treated. Additionally, India produces around 12 million tonnes of hazardous waste and about 1.71 million tonnes of e-waste each year. The country also faces significant challenges with plastic waste, generating 3.5 million tonnes annually.
Key Areas of Waste
- Clothing and Textiles: India generates approximately 1 million tonnes of textile waste annually. Fast fashion and consumer behavior lead to high disposal rates of perfectly usable clothing.
- Consumer Electronics: E-waste in India is growing at a rate of 30% annually, with only about 10% being formally recycled.
- Furniture and Vehicles: The increasing demand for new furniture and vehicles results in substantial waste, with limited focus on refurbishment and reuse.
Key Technology
Clothing Rentals and Reuse
- Clothing Rental Services: Platforms like Flyrobe and Stage3 offer rental services for high-end fashion, promoting the reuse of garments. Expanding these services can reduce the demand for new clothing.
- Second-hand Markets: Online marketplaces like OLX and Quikr facilitate the sale of second-hand goods, including clothing, electronics, and furniture, promoting reuse and reducing waste.
Repair and Refurbishment
- Electronics Repair: Initiatives like JustFix and UrbanClap offer repair services for consumer electronics, extending their lifespan and reducing e-waste. Encouraging such services can mitigate the growing e-waste problem in India.
- Furniture Refurbishment: Companies like Furlenco and Rentomojo provide refurbished furniture on a subscription basis, reducing the need for new furniture and minimizing waste.
Reusable and Sustainable Products
- Reusable Sanitary Products: Promoting reusable sanitary pads and menstrual cups can significantly reduce waste generated from disposable sanitary products. Organizations like SheCup and Eco Femme are leading efforts in this domain.
- Reusable Packaging: Implementing reusable packaging solutions for FMCG goods can cut down on single-use plastics. Brands like Beco and Ecoware are innovating in sustainable packaging solutions.
Case Studies
- Rentomojo: Rentomojo offers furniture, appliances, and electronics on a subscription basis. By promoting the reuse and refurbishment of products, Rentomojo helps reduce waste and the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing new items.
- Eco Femme: Eco Femme is a women-led social enterprise that produces and promotes the use of reusable cloth pads. This initiative not only reduces sanitary waste but also empowers women with sustainable menstrual products.
- Goonj: Goonj, an NGO, collects used clothing and household items and refurbishes them for redistribution to underserved communities. This initiative not only reduces waste but also provides essential items to those in need.
